A rose by any other name is still a rose. The delicacy and fragrant perfume of a rose is counter-balanced by the thorns that structurally coexist with this plant. How magnificent is the design of such a created thing but more importantly, how awesome is the One who created it!
Beauty exists in the midst of harsh surroundings. Paradoxically it is the harshness and the roughness, together with the ever-impeding danger of the ‘thorns’ that highlights the fragrant beauty of the rose. Like the rose that is protected by the thorns, life’s hardships protect our true self and serves as a buffer, keeping a watchful eye on that ambitious ego.
Who would have thought that something so delicate, actually needed something so harsh to exist besides it? Only the Master Designer, who has the master plan of all created things, holds the key to such mysteries. Is there a lesson to be learnt from the rose plant? Beauty cannot be fabricated. True beauty comes from within and cannot be bought or borrowed. As vigorous training makes for a good sportsman, trials make for a stronger person. Trials shape us, tone us and develops us in a way we can never fully understand.
A cowhide has to be stretched, seared with salt, dried out and beaten into shape to be ready for use. When you see a beautifully crafted leather handbag or a tailored leather jacket, there is a big price tag attached to it. If you value quality, you will know that such an item is worth the price. No fake leather handbag or jacket can compare with the genuine one. There is no counterfeit to real beauty because it lies deep within.
A rose by any other name is still a rose. It will never lose its distinctive quality and its beauty will always leave a lasting memory. Trials in life carve out our character and define our personality. True beauty comes from deep within and does not lie in the hands of a plastic surgeon. Roses and thorns are part of the design of the Master Designer, just like trials and triumphs are part of the making of a strong and noteworthy person.
Where do we find our cue to emit the perfume like a rose? The words of the song Above All reads, ‘Like a rose, trampled on the ground’. This song poignantly directs us to the One who is our exemplar. Listen here.
The Lord Jesus was the true expression of love on earth and although he was trampled, He stands victorious and is referred to as the Bright Morning Star (Revelation 22:16). What a great leader to follow!
Linda Pearl
About the Author
